Body
Unit Policy
Title
Library: Building Use Policy
Introduction
Purpose
This policy establishes expectations and rules for the use of University Library buildings to ensure a safe, respectful, and functional environment that supports learning, research, and library operations. It describes permitted and prohibited behaviors and activities, and references applicable University policies and standards governing library spaces.
Scope
This policy applies to all individuals using University Library buildings, including members of the public, students, faculty, staff, and affiliated groups.
Policy
Policy Statement
Campus libraries are open to the public. Everyone using campus libraries must adhere to all University policies; to local, state, and federal law; and to all Library guidelines and standards.
Users engaging in disruptive or prohibited behavior may be asked to cease the behavior or leave the library.
Animals
Assistance animals are welcome in campus libraries. Other animals must remain outside. See the University policy for Animals on Campus.
Bicycles, Scooters, and other Wheeled Transportation
Bicycles, scooters, and other wheeled transportation are not permitted inside library buildings. Consult the UNC Bicycle Resources Map for parking options.
Building use requests
The Use of University Property Policy and the Use of University Property Standard delegate administration of library buildings and spaces to the University Library. All uses of library buildings and spaces must be consistent with the Use of University Property Policy and Use of University Property Standard.
- The Library may permit activities such as charitable drives, installations, and performances by University departments and administrative units, instructors of record, and student organizations recognized by the Carolina Union, at its sole discretion. Activities must further inquiry, learning, and service at the University; advance the Library’s mission and priorities; and not interfere with, disrupt, or otherwise impact library staff, operations, or patrons.
- Certain areas of Davis Library, the Health Sciences Library, and Wilson Library may be reserved by groups with University affiliations according to the conditions and procedures described in Event Space at the University Library: Library Event Guidelines.
Children
Children are welcome; those under 14 require adult supervision.
Computers
The Library may designate selected computers for specific purposes. Academic work has priority at library computers.
Filming and photography
Filming and photography inside library buildings is governed by the University’s Filming on Campus Procedure. Requests, including those for coursework and class projects, require advance approval from the Media Relations office (mediarelations@unc.edu).
Library interiors are not available for wedding, engagement, graduation, or similar personal photo or video shoots.
Photography and video recording for personal use is permitted, so long as doing so does not disrupt or disturb library patrons or staff, interfere with library operations, involve additional equipment (e.g., lighting, tripod, flash, mic, etc.), or violate campus policies or standards.
Food & Drink
Individual libraries may restrict food and drink in certain areas. These areas are clearly marked.
Media
The University media policy designates libraries as locations requiring prior approval for conducting interviews, recording audio or video, or taking photographs. Members of the media, including student media, should contact mediarelations@unc.edu for assistance.
Signs, fliers, and publications
Only signs, fliers, publications, and similar materials produced by the Library may be displayed or distributed in or on library buildings.
Davis Library and the Undergraduate Library have bulletin boards near the exit for the use of community members. Library staff periodically clear bulletin boards.
The Use of University Property Standard governs such materials in interior and exterior spaces.
Security cameras
Security cameras in library buildings are placed and operated in accordance with the University Security Camera Policy.
Smoking
The campus No Smoking Policy prohibits the use of lighted tobacco products, electronic cigarettes, and vaping devices in any University building and within 100 feet of all University facilities.
Solicitation
Solicitation is not permitted in library buildings. See the University’s Use of University Property Standard, specifically the section on “The Use of Surfaces, Bulletin Boards, and Spaces”.